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Disasters & Severe Weather

Dealing With Mold Allergies After a Disaster

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Hello. I’m Doctor Steve Redd with the U.S. Public Health Service assigned to CDC.

If you are allergic to mold, or have asthma, being around mold may make your condition worse. If you have a chronic lung condition or a weak immune system, you could develop mold infections in your lungs and you should try to avoid buildings contaminated with mold.

In general you don’t need a protective mask, called a N95 mask, just for re-entering a building, but if you plan to clean up mold you should buy one at your local home supply store and follow instructions on the package for fitting it tightly on your face. If you think that mold is affecting your health, please see your health care provider.